South Dakota

Built in the Roaring Twenties by a railroader who had a flair for luxury and a deep appreciation of the Sioux Indian culture, the Alex Johnson Hotel is a landmark in the heart of the Rapid City downtown skyline. The first steam shovel hole was dug one day prior to the first blast at Mount Rushmore. The Germanic Tudor exterior mixed with the Lakota/Native American and railroad interior theme makes for a unique mix of decor. Alex's magnificent lobby features an original chandelier of warrior spears, hand-painted ceramic tiles in traditional Sioux designs, and ceiling patterns taken from Sioux beadwork. Floor tiles bear the signs of the "Sacred Four Directions" in a hand-painted motif. This fine hotel is currently undergoing a 5 million dollar renovation with work being done on the lodging accommodation rooms, lobby, restaurant, meeting and banquet, and exterior. The work is scheduled to be completed in mid May 2010. You will enjoy the results.